Is Cannabis Legal in Michigan?

While a number of states surrounding Michigan have taken steps to regulate and allow the use of cannabis, the state continues to view any recreational cannabis use as punishable by law. In fact, any amount of cannabis found on residents or visitors of Michigan is punishable by up to one year in prison or a $2,000 fine. However, Michigan has taken strides in the right direction by passing the “Michigan Medical Marijuana Act” in 2008 which allows the use of medicinal marijuana to qualifying patients.

Residents of Michigan with qualifying conditions are permitted to hold up to two and one-half ounces of usable marijuana, and up to 12 marijuana plants that are kept in an enclosed and locked facility. Outdoor plants are also allowed but may not be visible to the public and must be grown within a stationary structure. Caretakers are also permitted to purchase and cultivate the same amount of cannabis on behalf of their patients. In order to qualify to legally receive medical marijuana residents of Michigan must be diagnosed with one or more of the following conditions: Alzheimer’s disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Cachexia or wasting syndrome, cancer, chronic pain, Crohn’s disease, Glaucoma, HIV or AIDS, Hepatitis C, nail patella, nausea, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), seizures, or severe and persistent muscle spasms. Patients must be diagnosed by a primary care physician, and must have authenticated, written certification from the physician that they would benefit from the use of medical marijuana.

While the necessary steps are being taken to broaden the use of cannabis into recreational acceptance, it’s important to observe all Michigan state laws regarding the use of cannabis. Tourists (both those with and without a medicinal marijuana card) are not permitted to purchase cannabis within the state of Michigan. Residents and tourists are also permitted from taking any amount of cannabis outside of state lines. Doing so may be viewed and tried as attempted drug trafficking. We highly suggest staying up to date on the progression of Michigan cannabis laws and looking into current laws prior to obtaining cannabis, in order to protect yourself from committing any violations.